GHK-Cu: Topical vs SubQ vs Oral For Best Skin Effects
For research and educational purposes only. Not for human consumption. GHK-Cu is one of the most studied peptides for skin, wound healing, and anti-aging research. But there's a lot of confusion about HOW to administer it. Let's break down all three routes in plain terms so you understand what's actually happening with each one. The Three Ways GHK-Cu Is Administered 1. Topical (Creams/Serums) What it is: Applying GHK-Cu directly to the skin mixed into a serum or cream base. The idea: Get the peptide right where you want it—directly on the skin. The problem: Your skin is really good at keeping things OUT. That's literally its job. The outer layer (epidermis) acts as a barrier, and peptides have a hard time getting through it. Even with fancy penetration enhancers, absorption is hit or miss. A lot of what you apply just sits on the surface. To actually stimulate collagen and see skin benefits, the peptide needs to reach the deeper layer (dermis)—and there's no guarantee it gets there. Best use case: Targeted support for specific areas, ideally combined with another administration route. 2. SubQ (Subcutaneous) What it is: Reconstituted GHK-Cu administered subq, just under the skin into the fatty tissue. The idea: Bypass the skin barrier entirely and deliver the peptide directly into the system. Why this works: 100% of the peptide gets into circulation. No guessing about absorption. From there, it distributes throughout the entire system—skin, hair follicles, organs, everywhere. Research on GHK-Cu shows benefits beyond just skin: lung tissue repair, wound healing, anti-inflammatory effects, and even potential cognitive benefits. SubQ administration is how you actually access all of that. Best use case: When the goal is systemic benefits—skin improvement from the inside out, plus all the other researched effects. 3. Oral (Capsules) What it is: Swallowing GHK-Cu in capsule form. The idea: Easy administration, just swallow a capsule. The reality: This is where people get misled. Here's what happens when you swallow a peptide: